Sadik-Khan Announces Summer Streets 2012

NYC DOT Commissioner Janette Sadik-Khan today announced dates for the fifth iteration of the city’s premier car-free event. Seven miles of Manhattan streets, from the Brooklyn Bridge to Central Park, will be open to pedestrians from 7 a.m. to 1 p.m. on August 4, 11 and 18.

“For three Saturdays this August, the streets belong to all New Yorkers, and everyone’s invited,” said Sadik-Khan, speaking at Union Square this morning. Summer Streets 2012 will feature a 160-foot-long zip line, a 25-foot climbing wall, football (the NFL is a sponsor this year, via the league’s “Play 60” youth fitness campaign) and “other sports-themed activities.” Bike New York will be on hand to provide bike-riding lessons.

Weekend Walks will also take place in 19 neighborhoods throughout the summer.

Since commissioner Janette Sadik-Khan seems to be doing a great job changing the way
things are done in NYC maybe she should run for mayor Mike’s job in the next mayor election in 2013.

Dennis Hindman

Wait. New York City is going to have a large bicycle sharing installed and then seven miles of streets will be closed for three Saturdays in August, which will enable people to try the bikes under significantly reduced stress levels from not having to worry about motorized vehicles.

Summer Streets should encourage people, who may not have considered it otherwise ,to sign up for bicycle sharing in New York City.

Ben Kintisch

I heart Summer Streets big time! What a wonderful way to experience the city! Last year it was my first time riding with my Baby Dalia in tow in the Burley Bike trailer, though she was so little she fell asleep for the whole ride. Now that she’s a big girl (all of a year a half) she can stay awake and enjoy the scenery! Put it on your calendar folks, especially those of you haven’t had the fun of biking with the little ones (or even timid spouses/significant others/family members).

Mike

Three “mornings” not three Saturdays. It’s a shame they never expanded it to make it a full day event.

Guest 2

Summer Streets…lol. I agree with Mike. Should be a full day. Fail Bloomburger

Curious

I really would love to ask, why don’t the city’s streets belong to all New Yorkers every day (and not just 3 Saturdays in August)?

Tallycyclist

Curious Unfortunately there’s just too much catering to those who do not live in NYC and “have to” commute by car and drive everywhere in the city. I sometimes ask the same question. Why can’t quiet neighborhood streets belong to the residents at the very least? There’s a lady nearby on such a street that allows her 3 kids to play out and every time I see that I’m happy that there are still parents who encourage their children to experience their outdoors, right in their own front yard essentially. Yet I’m also saddened that she must put out “caution, children at play” sign posts on both ends because there can be quite a bit of traffic (fast) from all the rat-running that goes on.